Students in Wyndham are a step closer to the facilities they deserve, with work starting on a new year 7-9 centre at Tarneit P-9 College.

“This investment will ensure the quality teaching at Tarneit P-9 College will be matched by a high quality learning environment where students are engaged, stimulated and encouraged to be creative thinkers.” Minister for Education James Merlino said.

Minister for Education James Merlino and Member for Tarneit Telmo Languiller today turned the first sod to mark the start of construction.

“Tarneit P-9 College has talented students and a dedicated team of staff and teachers who deserve modern facilities so they can achieve their best.”

The Andrews Government delivered $10 Million to fund the project in last year’s Budget, to help the school deal with growing student numbers.

Since it opened in 2013, Tarneit P-9’s enrolment has grown from 331 students to 1,594 students this year, and it is expected to top 1,600 students in coming years.

Construction on the new year 7-9 centre is expected to be finished by the second half of next year.

The State Government invested a record $1.1 Billion to build new schools and upgrade classrooms across the state in the Victorian Budget 2016/17, including $200 Million to better maintain existing school facilities.

“I commend current Principal Rynn Anderson and former Principal Peter Devereux for their incredible commitment to the school, local students and their families.” Member for Tarneit Telmo Languiller said.

“Tarneit P-9 College is a great school in a growing area and this investment will help ensure it has capacity for new students and the modern, safe and stimulating facilities they deserve.”

“Building, fixing and upgrading Victorian school infrastructure gives our students and teachers the environment they need to achieve their best.” Mr. Merlino said.